The genes most significantly involved in cell senescence, based on network connectivity, are TP53, MYC, JUN, CDK2, and CDK1. These genes have been consistently reported to play a crucial role in the cell senescence process.
Key Genes and Their Roles in Cell Senescence
Here's a breakdown of these key genes and their functions in cell senescence:
-
TP53 (Tumor Protein P53): Often referred to as the "guardian of the genome," TP53 is a transcription factor involved in DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. Its activation can induce senescence in response to various cellular stresses. It has 42 connections in senescence networks.
-
MYC (MYC Proto-Oncogene, BHLH Transcription Factor): MYC is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of numerous genes involved in cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. Its role in senescence is complex, as it can promote both proliferation and senescence depending on the cellular context. It has 42 connections in senescence networks.
-
JUN (Jun Proto-Oncogene, AP-1 Transcription Factor Subunit): JUN is part of the AP-1 transcription factor complex, which is involved in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Activation of the JUN pathway can contribute to senescence. It has 38 connections in senescence networks.
-
CDK2 (Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2): CDK2 is a protein kinase that regulates the cell cycle. Its inhibition or downregulation can induce cell cycle arrest and senescence. It has 35 connections in senescence networks.
-
CDK1 (Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 1): Similar to CDK2, CDK1 is a key regulator of the cell cycle. Its inhibition leads to cell cycle arrest and can trigger senescence. It has 30 connections in senescence networks.
Table Summarizing Key Genes
| Gene | Description | Role in Senescence | Number of Connections |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP53 | Tumor suppressor protein, "guardian of the genome" | Induces senescence in response to DNA damage and cellular stress. | 42 |
| MYC | Transcription factor regulating cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis | Can promote both proliferation and senescence depending on the cellular context. | 42 |
| JUN | Part of the AP-1 transcription factor complex | Involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis; activation can contribute to senescence. | 38 |
| CDK2 | Protein kinase regulating the cell cycle | Inhibition or downregulation can induce cell cycle arrest and senescence. | 35 |
| CDK1 | Key regulator of the cell cycle | Inhibition leads to cell cycle arrest and can trigger senescence. | 30 |
Additional Considerations
While the genes listed above are critically important, cell senescence is a complex process involving a network of interacting genes and signaling pathways. Other genes and factors can also influence the induction and maintenance of senescence.
